"Lock and Key" is a young adult novel written by Sarah Dessen and published in 2008. The story centers on 17-year-old protagonist Ruby Cooper and her move to her much-older sister's house after her drug-addicted mother abandons her. Cora and her husband Jamie love Ruby, but they must earn Ruby's love in return. Ruby befriends wealthy classmate and neighbor Nate, only to discover he also has a destructive home life. Nate's father has a temper and often verbally and physically abuses him. Ruby gives Nate her necklace at the airport as he is leaving to go live with his mother.

Releasing the Past

The falling action occurs after Ruby gives Nate her necklace. Nate has been a source of strength for Ruby. He rescued her when she first moved to town and got in trouble with drugs and alcohol. Nate also got Ruby her job at a jewelry kiosk at the mall. When Ruby takes the original key to her old yellow house she lived in with her mom off her necklace and replaces it with a key to Cora and Jamie's house, it symbolizes a turning point in Ruby's life. Ruby wants to leave the past behind and gives the necklace to Nate, assuring him that he holds a place in her heart and is always welcome at Cora and Jamie's.

Moving Forward

After Nate leaves, Ruby starts looking toward the future. Dessen uses the falling action to bring closure to the book. Ruby now feels secure in Cora and Jamie's home and appreciates the love and attention they give her. For example, Cora and Jamie are just as excited to find out if Ruby got accepted to a reputable college as Ruby is. They have become more like parents to Ruby than a sister and brother-in-law. Nate sends Ruby a sentimental high school graduation present -- key earrings. Nate and Ruby are accepted to the same university and will attend together in the fall. Ruby presents her final English project on family and shows a picture of Jamie's large family and a photo of her 18th birthday.

Reconciling the Past

Even though Ruby has turned over a new leaf and no longer struggles with the fear, bitterness and insecurities of her past, she still wants to connect with her mother. She attempts to write a letter to her mother, who is in prison, but can never come up with the right words. As a result, she sends her mother a copy of her college acceptance letter with no additional note. Cora and Jamie attend Ruby's graduation, along with Ruby's boss from the jewelry kiosk, Harriett, and Harriet's boyfriend Reggie. Ruby finally feels as though she has a genuine family -- a close-knit group of people who love and care for her.

Looking to the Future

The book concludes and the falling action ends when Cora reveals to Jamie and Ruby that she's pregnant. Cora and Jamie have been trying to conceive for years. The ending is full of emotion as the three realize how happy they are that their family will soon have a new addition. Ruby has overcome the trials of her childhood and looks forward to her bright future. Memories of the small yellow house where she lived with her mother no longer burden her.

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About the Author

As curriculum developer and educator, Kristine Tucker has enjoyed the plethora of English assignments she's read (and graded!) over the years. Her experiences as vice-president of an energy consulting firm have given her the opportunity to explore business writing and HR. Tucker has a BA and holds Ohio teaching credentials.